From November 20–22, 2024, Florinesya Zahwa Raihania, a student from the English Department, participated in the prestigious ASEAN Youth Conference (AYC). Since its inception in 2018, the AYC has served as a flagship program of the ASEAN Youth Organization (AYO), empowering youth voices in regional dialogues. AYO’s vision centers on fostering positive change and promoting inclusive development across ASEAN. This year’s theme, “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience for Our Shared Future,” underscores the importance of collaboration and adaptability in a rapidly changing world.

The conference, through panel discussions, workshops, and collaborative sessions, provided participants an opportunity to contribute to the creation of an ASEAN Youth Vision. This vision will be presented to the ASEAN Secretariat, influencing future policy-making processes.

 

Passion Meets Opportunity

Florinesya’s decision to join AYC stemmed from her deep interest in culture, communication, and regional dynamics. She felt the event aligned seamlessly with her academic pursuits and her personal goal of fostering cross-border collaboration among youth, starting with the ASEAN community.

Reflecting on her experience, Florinesya described the application process as both rigorous and rewarding. Participants were required to submit a detailed personal statement outlining their achievements, aspirations, and motivation for attending. A selection phase followed, where candidates were assessed on their academic backgrounds and visions for contributing to the conference’s objectives.

“Preparing for the conference meant researching current ASEAN issues, understanding the event’s theme, and reflecting on how my perspective as a youth could add value to the discussions,” Florinesya shared. “It required dedication, critical thinking, and stepping out of my comfort zone, but it was a deeply enriching journey that made me more confident and equipped to engage with a diverse group of peers.”

The Conference Experience

Held in Jakarta, the three-day event brought together 80 youth leaders and changemakers from ASEAN and beyond.

The opening day featured welcoming remarks from prominent figures, including representatives of the ASEAN Secretariat and officials from Lao PDR. These speeches were followed by a panel discussion and open forum addressing ASEAN’s three pillars: the Political-Security Community (APSC), Economic Community (AEC), and Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC). These sessions laid the groundwork for meaningful conversations about ASEAN’s priorities and future opportunities.

The second day delved into deeper engagement through workshops and open forums. Florinesya joined the breakout room focused on the ASCC pillar, which aligns with her passion for fostering socio-cultural connectivity.

“In this session, we participated in a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to draft the ASEAN Youth Vision Paper,” she explained. “Collaborating with passionate peers, we brainstormed innovative ideas and actionable solutions to address ASEAN’s socio-cultural challenges. The discussions emphasized inclusivity, resilience, and connectivity.”

The final day culminated with the presentation of the vision papers at the ASEAN Headquarters. Following this, participants explored Jakarta’s cultural heritage with a visit to the Museum Tekstil, where they engaged in batik-making workshops. The event closed with a vibrant cultural night dinner, where participants donned traditional attire, celebrating diversity and fostering lasting connections.

 

Reflections and Aspirations

Florinesya described her AYC experience as transformative. It expanded her knowledge of regional issues, strengthened her leadership and communication skills, and connected her with talented peers from across ASEAN and beyond.

“The experience deepened my understanding of cultural diversity and the value of collaborative efforts in solving shared challenges,” she said.

Looking ahead, Florinesya expressed her aspirations to leverage this experience to inspire and empower youth to create meaningful change. “In the future, I plan to immerse myself more in international environments where I can apply what I’ve learned. I hope to contribute to initiatives promoting sustainability, education, and cultural exchange, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.”

Photo credits: Florinesya Zahwa Raihania (first picture), ASEAN Youth Organization (second and third picture).

English Department UGM and Swaragama Training Center proudly present “Scholarship for Public Speaking and Communication Course” program for the students interested in enhancing their public speaking skills. To enroll, submit all of the requirements via bit.ly/EDPublicSpeaking 2024 by 23 September 2024.

We are opening a 10-meeting mentoring program exclusively for English Department students interested in enrolling in the IISMA student exchange.  For those who are interested, please enroll via bit.ly/MentoringIISMAED2024 before 11 September.

POPSI Kicks Off with Academic Integrity Workshop

On August 12, the opening session of POPSI featured an engaging workshop on academic integrity led by Paris and Mia from the Oberlin Shansi Fellows. The first day focused on an anti-plagiarism workshop, where new students learned essential skills to avoid plagiarism, particularly through proper citation techniques.

The session included a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation, fun interactive activities, and a discussion on AI’s role in academic integrity. Students participated in games, reviewed key terms, and explored various methods to prevent plagiarism. The atmosphere was lively, with students showing great enthusiasm and interest throughout the session, actively engaging in discussions and asking thoughtful questions.

By the end of the workshop, participants gained a solid understanding of how to uphold academic integrity in their work and felt confident in applying these practices in their studies.

POPSI Continues with Inspiring Alumni Talks

On August 14, the second day of POPSI featured an insightful alumni talk, focusing on career paths in academia. The event included two sessions, both held online via Zoom, and was led by two distinguished lecturers from the English Studies Program, Bu Mala Hernawati, and Mbak Ashika Prajnya Paramita, both currently pursuing their doctoral degrees abroad.

The first session started with Bu Mala Hernawati, who shared her journey to becoming a lecturer in English Literature. She candidly spoke about her experiences and challenges, offering valuable tips to new students on how to navigate their college life while staying passionate about their goals. Her advice was practical and encouraging, motivating students to make the most of their time at university and to pursue their ambitions with dedication.

Students eagerly engaged with her, asking questions and seeking further guidance on how to build their own academic and professional paths. Bu Mala’s words resonated deeply with many through an inspiring tone for the rest of the day’s sessions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The second part of the alumni talk on August 14 was led by Mbak Ashika Prajnya Paramita, a lecturer at UGM, who created an interactive and engaging atmosphere with a two-way conversation between herself and the new students. Rather than just giving a presentation, Mba Ashika opened the floor to an open dialogue, encouraging students to share their thoughts and ask questions.

She shared her personal journey to becoming a lecturer by offering a candid look at the challenges and triumphs along the way. In addition to academic advice, Mba Ashika provided valuable guidance on navigating life beyond university. She shared some words of wisdom not just for surviving UGM but for handling the ups and downs of life in general.

The session was a refreshing change of pace, with students feeling comfortable enough to ask questions about both their academic paths and personal growth. Mba Ashika’s approachable style and relatable stories made the conversation feel more like a mentoring session, which left students inspired and reassured as they began their own journeys.

Mba Hesti Aryani Shares Global Career Journey in Business Development

The second session of the alumni talk on August 14 featured Mbak Hesti Aryani, who joined via Zoom all the way from Switzerland, where she works as a business development manager at janzz.technology. As a 2007 graduate of the English Literature program, Mba Hesti took the opportunity to share her career journey by offering a candid look at how she transitioned from a literature student to a successful professional in the tech industry.

Mba Hesti spoke about the challenges she faced and the steps she took to get where she is today, highlighting the twists and turns along her career path. She emphasized that her English Literature background played a key role in her success, from sharpening her communication skills to helping her navigate the international business world.

Her story resonated with students who are unsure about the career options available to them outside of academia. Mba Hesti’s experiences showed that there’s no one-size-fits-all path, and that with determination and a willingness to keep learning, English Literature graduates can find themselves thriving in unexpected fields—even halfway across the world. Her talk was a relatable, down-to-earth conversation that left students feeling inspired and optimistic about their own futures.

POPSI Day 3 Wraps Up with Alumni Insights and a Potluck Celebration

The third day of POPSI on August 15 kicked off with the continuation of the alumni talks, beginning with a session led by Indra “Andrew” Pradipa Yudha, S.S., M.A., CEO of Discovering English, an English learning institution. Before stepping into his current role, Mas Andrew had experience as a financial advisor and an English teacher. Now pursuing a career as an edupreneur and content creator, he shared practical advice with students on how to leverage their English Literature degree to break into the business world, particularly through content creation. His tips were especially valuable for those looking to explore non-traditional career paths in the digital age.

The second session featured Dr. Eddy Pursubaryanto, M. Hum., a former lecturer and cultural scientist from the English Studies Program. In his talk, Pak Eddy encouraged students to delve deeper into the concept of “culture,” emphasizing its relevance as they study within UGM’s Faculty of Cultural Sciences. He highlighted the importance of understanding cultural contexts, especially in an academic setting that bridges literature and broader cultural studies.

The final day of POPSI ended on a high note with a lively potluck party hosted by IMAJI and the English Studies Program. Dr. Adi Sutrisno, the head of the study program, officially welcomed the new students, with many other lecturers joining in to greet the newcomers. The event also covered important academic topics, such as the MBKM programs, and provided a more informal introduction to the study program.

The atmosphere was festive, with students and lecturers enjoying the food, conversations, and a sense of community. It was a fitting conclusion to the three-day orientation. All students were excited and well-prepared for their journey ahead in the English Studies Program.

New English Department students, join us as we kick off an exciting new chapter! POPSI will help you navigate your life as a university student and discover possible career paths after graduation.

As American universities increasingly prioritize Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, humanities and language programs, especially those focusing on less commonly taught languages, face a significant funding decline. This trend poses a serious threat to the continued existence of Southeast Asian language instruction in U.S. institutions. In this challenging landscape, the question arises: how can these programs not only survive but thrive?

This critical issue was at the heart of a recent roundtable discussion held as part of the AAS-in-Asia Conference 2024 events at Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, from July 9-11. Chaired by Juliana Wijaya from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), the discussion brought together leading figures in Southeast Asian language education to share insights and best practices for adapting to the changing educational landscape.

Panelists included Pia C. Arboleda from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, representing the Filipino language program; Sakti Suryani from Harvard University, representing the Indonesian language program; Jenjit Gasigitamrong from the University of California, representing the Thai language program; and Thúy Tranviet from Cornell University, representing the Vietnamese language program.

One of the key takeaways from the discussion was the importance of proactive marketing and outreach. Pia C. Arboleda emphasized the need to effectively “sell” language programs, akin to marketing a product. Strategies such as showcasing student success stories through testimonials and engaging with high schools through presentations and workshops were identified as crucial for countering declining enrollment often seen in humanities programs.

However, attracting students is just the first step. Sakti Suryani highlighted the importance of adapting lesson plans and content to meet students’ interests and current proficiency levels. She emphasized engaging students by asking what they want to learn, which fosters greater involvement and caters to specific needs. Suryani also suggested collaborating with Indonesian student associations and the broader Indonesian community to create real-world connections for students and provide opportunities for cultural exchange.

 

The discussion also highlighted the significance of heritage learners—students with a family background in a particular language. Jenjit Gasigitamrong shared experiences from the Thai language program, which primarily attracts Thai-American students pursuing STEM fields. Recognizing their cultural heritage, Gasigitamrong stressed the importance of incorporating elements like food, art, and cultural practices into the curriculum. Additionally, encouraging students to use the language to discuss their STEM studies helps them connect more deeply with their heritage and highlights the value of Southeast Asian languages in broader academic contexts.

The transformative power of project-based learning was another focal point. Thúy Tranviet championed this approach, emphasizing its role in allowing students to immerse themselves in the language through practical application, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the culture. Tranviet shared a unique example where Vietnamese students visited Thailand, demonstrating the potential of language learning to bridge cultural divides and foster regional understanding. This approach transcends traditional language learning, offering enriching experiences across academic disciplines and fostering meaningful connections.

The roundtable concluded with a renewed sense of optimism for the future of Southeast Asian language programs. By embracing adaptability, fostering a culture of collaboration, and utilizing innovative teaching methods like project-based learning, these programs can not only survive but thrive. The concept of “border crossing” was highlighted, extending beyond geographical boundaries to encompass collaboration with STEM fields and other disciplines. By demonstrating the versatility and relevance of Southeast Asian languages in today’s world, these programs empower students to navigate a globalized landscape and bridge cultural divides. This holistic approach positions Southeast Asian languages as valuable tools for future generations, enabling meaningful engagement with the world.

Writer: Hasyim Kurniawan, S.S., M.App.Ling.

 

Join Magang Merdeka at STAR Indonesia to gain new experience as professional linguists/translators! Send your CV, latest academic transcript, and short essay (500-700 words) explaining why you need to participate in this internship program and its impact on your future career by August 7th.

SGDs 4: Quality Education| SGDs 5: Gender Equality| SGDs 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

On Saturday (15/6/2024), students of English Literature Study Program batch 2023 held a theater performance and exhibition with the theme “Ru(me)nation” which was held at Soegondo Building 7th floor, Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM. The theater performance entitled Carol ad Caroline and the exhibition entitled 1001: One Frame, A Thousand Pictures is a part of their final project that must be fulfilled in the Language and Literature Production course. The event was organized by all students of English Literature UGM class of 2023 and attended by lecturers, students, parents of students of English Literature UGM, and also by the public.

This event aims to improve students’ ability to work in the use of English, increase students’ appreciation of art and literature, and develop students’ talents, potential, and soft skills. The benefits of this activity are no other than equipping students with non-technical skills in terms of organizing and running events, improving their ability to use English in oral and written form in academic and non-academic environments, and enriching students’ knowledge in their artwork appreciation and self-confidence through artwork production.

The event was opened with much enthusiasm by the host, followed by a warm welcome by the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Nur Saktiningrum, M.Hum. and Alvanita, S.S., M.Ed. as the lecturer of the course. In the welcome speech, Mrs. Alvanita mentioned that the students have been practicing for months in order to present this theater performance to the whole audience. 

 

The theme of the theater performance was a topic related to mental health and self-acceptance, which is no longer out of place, especially among fellow students. This performance is expected to open a broader perspective to the audience, the committee, and the actors on the issue of mental health. This performance is also a picture and a reminder to be fully accepting of ourselves and loving it by being gentle to our own selves and hearts. 

The event ended with a standing ovation as the audience stood up in appreciation of the spectacular performance. After this point, all the committee and performers danced together with lively music while the host read out the names of the committee and performers involved. Not to forget, all 2023 students of the UGM English Literature Study Program expressed their gratitude for the enthusiasm and participation of the audience in the success of the event.